UK Court Halts Deportation of Nigerian Robber Due to Claims of Demonic Possession
A UK court has halted the deportation of a Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery due to his claim of demonic possession, arguing he would face mental health risks if returned to Nigeria. Evidence presented illustrated his serious psychological issues tied to cultural perceptions of possession. The ruling reflects a growing trend of criminals using human rights arguments to contest deportation. Meanwhile, stricter immigration policies are being implemented by the UK government.
A UK court has decided not to deport a Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery and drug offenses. The man, who claimed to suffer from “demonic possession,” argued that he would face discrimination and inadequate treatment if returned to Nigeria. His history includes a seven-year prison sentence for robbery in 2011 and another seven years for supplying illegal drugs. The judge’s ruling highlights the complex interplay between human rights considerations and criminal behavior in immigration cases.
The court’s decision stemmed from evidence that the appellant’s mental health condition might lead to him being seen as possessed in Nigeria, potentially putting him at risk. A report from Amnesty International indicated that prevalent beliefs in demonic forces in Nigeria could exacerbate his situation upon return. An expert diagnosis noted that he experienced severe trauma-related symptoms and intrusive thoughts about demonic forces affecting his mental state.
This case illustrates a broader trend where individuals convicted of crimes use human rights appeals to remain in the UK. The latest available data revealed that arrests of migrants for illegal working increased significantly in early 2025. Concurrently, the UK government has been enacting stricter immigration regulations, including new citizenship measures and addressing asylum seeker accommodations.
Separately, the case of Tobi Adegboyega, a Nigerian pastor, shows contrasting results, as he lost his own deportation appeal due to alleged involvement in significant financial fraud. The added complications within UK immigration policies hint at ongoing challenges for those attempting to find refuge or build a life in the country while under scrutiny for past activities.
The UK court’s ruling in favor of the Nigerian man underscores ongoing complexities in the intersection of mental health, cultural perceptions of possession, and immigration law. Cases like his illustrate how human rights arguments can successfully challenge deportation for individuals with criminal backgrounds. Simultaneously, tightening immigration laws and increased enforcement efforts signal a more strenuous landscape for migrants in the UK.
Original Source: www.legit.ng
